User's Manual

MDS 05-6399A01, Rev. D MDS Master Station 93
NX915: A GE MDS NIC module supporting unlicensed operation at 900 MHz
MAS—Multiple Address System. A radio system where a central master unit communicates with several
remote stations for the purpose of gathering telemetry data.
Master (Station)—Radio which is connected to the host computer. It is the point at which polling enters
the network.
Multiple Address System—See MAS.
Network-Wide Diagnostics—An advanced method of controlling and interrogating GE MDS radios in a
radio network.
Node—An operating mode of the transceiver with respect to diagnostic/management activities. See also
GATE, PEER, and ROOT.
Non-intrusive diagnostics—See Passive messaging.
OTA—Over-the-Air.
PA—Power Amplifier.
Packet Radio—A transmission scheme in which data elements are assembled into units, that are consec-
utively numbered and error-checked at the time of transmittal. Errored packets result in retry requests
from the receiving station.
Passive messaging—This is a mode of diagnostic gathering or reprogramming that does not interrupt
payload system polling communications. Diagnostic/reprogramming data is sent/collected non-intrusively
over a period of time; polling messages are carried with payload system data (contrast with active mes-
saging).
Payload data—This is the application’s communication data which is sent over the radio network.
Peer—An operating mode of the transceiver with respect to diagnostic/management activities. See also
GATE, NODE, and ROOT.
Point-Multipoint System—A radio communications network or system designed with a central control
station that exchanges data with a number of remote locations equipped with terminal equipment.
Poll—A request for data issued from the host computer (or master PLC) to a remote radio.
PLC—Programmable Logic Controller. A dedicated microprocessor configured for a specific application
with discrete inputs and outputs. It can serve as a host or as an RTU.
PPM—Parts per Million. Typically used to specify a tolerance rating for an operational parameter.
Programmable Logic Controller—See PLC.
Remote (Station)—A radio in a network that communicates with an associated master unit.
Remote Terminal Unit—See RTU.
Redundant Operation—A station arrangement where two transceivers and two power supplies are
available for operation, with automatic switch-over in case of a failure.
Root—An operating mode of the transceiver with respect to diagnostic/management activities. See also
GATE, NODE, and PEER.
RTS—Request-to-send.